Paper

Paper is a song by Arkaystian-Izol singer Shungudzo. Paper is a mix of dance-pop and reggae. It's afro-fusion has been described as "intoxicating". It represented Arkaystia at Maia Song Contest 22. "Paper" qualified for the Grand Final in 3rd place following a powerful and emotional performance by Shungudzo. The song ultimately finished in 5th place, giving the country its first automatic qualification since the 16th edition. The result was heralded as a "rebirth" of the country in the contest, as it attracted particular interest from the debuting countries. Speaking about the track, Shungudzo said that "this song is inspired by my family’s immigration to “the promised land,” and the realization that the promised land breaks more promises than it keeps. Getting by isn’t easy — no matter who you are and where you come from — and yet we still find ways to smile at, and dance with, and love each other. Can we all make a pact not to let money govern our happiness, no matter how much we feel like we need it? Nobody, and no government, controls our joy but us. And joy is power!" (via soundcloud, 2018). The official video was released on all music and video platforms on 30 October 2018. "Paper" is accompanied by a series of poetry written by Govere, all of which is available to read on her Twitter profile.